Need help getting pool clear

[HermanTX]

IF the pool ever gets clear we are wanting to check into a salt water system.

It is not IF but when your pool is clear. You need to continue with the SLAM. Ensure you maintain the SLAM FC for your CYA level and the pool will clear. Just keep filtering and brushing the pool to remove any dead algae.

 

[AndrewO]

We are getting closer to the end finally. I am still maintaining the fc several times a day and the cc has been reading pretty well too. The way the jets are moving it’s hard to see the bottom with the ripples but when I cut the pump off I can see the bottom liner in the deep end. It is not crystal clear so I figure it needs a few more days maybe.

My question is once it is crystal clear, the cc is .5 or less and I do/pass the overnight test what do I do next? Test everything and adjust and in what order? Do I give it time to get the fc down to 4-6 before we get in?
Then, when this is all set and everything is done what are the recommendations you’d recommend to keep it clear? We have so many trees around us we fight with the pool more than we get to enjoy it.
What all is involved in switching to salt water system ? Is this something we could attempt or something we need to find someone to do?
Lastly, we need to order a new cover. We’ve had a mesh loop-loc before, as well as a plain cover with water bags but we are leaning towards a loop loc solid cover with drain panels and a pump but they are quite pricey. Is there another brand that is good quality and would last a while?
Sorry for such a long post but I had lots of questions
Thanks for the help

 

[PoolStored]

Test everything and adjust and in what order?

Always chlorine first. Maintain your FC based on your FC. Use this link-->FC/CYA Levels
pH next. Just keep it in the 7s and you will be fine. pH rises naturally, don't raise pH with chemicals. Lower with muratic acid.
The rest, follow this:

What Are My Ideal Pool Levels?

Use our tool to find ideal chemical levels for any swimming pool. Check TFP recommended levels on pH, free chlorine, cyanuric acid, and more.

www.troublefreepool.com

Do I give it time to get the fc down to 4-6 before we get in?

Once you can see the bottom of the deep end, and FC is between min and SLAM level FC. It is safe to swim.

Then, when this is all set and everything is done what are the recommendations you’d recommend to keep it clear?

Keep your FC at the top of the range based on your CYA. See link above. If you have to dose above range, so that your are in range when you test, do that.
Don't add pool potions. Chlorine, CYA, muriatic acid. Before you add anything else, ask here.

Basic Pool Care Schedule

This basic pool care schedule can guide you in creating your own pool care routine. Regular pool maintenance will keep your water sparkling!

www.troublefreepool.com

We have so many trees around us we fight with the pool more than we get to enjoy it.

That can happen.

What all is involved in switching to salt water system ? Is this something we could attempt or something we need to find someone to do?

Post up a thread in the Saltwater Generator forum and ask your question there.

Lastly, we need to order a new cover. We’ve had a mesh loop-loc before, as well as a plain cover with water bags but we are leaning towards a loop loc solid cover with drain panels and a pump but they are quite pricey. Is there another brand that is good quality and would last a while?

Post this in "everything else" By posting these issue in the correct forum, the people that go there will see "need help with cover" vs. need help to clear pool.

 

[AndrewO]

Ok I will post the other questions elsewhere.
As far as the fc as long as we are at the minimum of 4 and up to slam 20 we are okay to get in assuming other tests are also in range?
Is it best to keep buying liquid chlorine or will I be able to start using the 50 lb bucket we already bought ? Same for the nst prime tablets we usually put in the skimmer? We already have both chlorine tablets here. Still waiting to add them to the chlorinate or skimmer or floater (whichever is recommended) and when.
Thanks

 

[PoolStored]

As far as the fc as long as we are at the minimum of 4 and up to slam 20 we are okay to get in assuming other tests are also in range?

Yes if you can see the bottom of the deep end.

Is it best to keep buying liquid chlorine or will I be able to start using the 50 lb bucket we already bought ? Same for the nst prime tablets we usually put in the skimmer? We already have both chlorine tablets here. Still waiting to add them to the chlorinate or skimmer or floater (whichever is recommended) and when.

Keep using liquid. The tablets contain CYA. Your CYA is already high.
Never add them to the skimmer, to acidic and will damage equipment.
We recommend saving them and using them when you go on vacation, or your CYA has degraded. Cya degrades about 5-10ppm per month. Use them when you CYA has fallen. Use a floater.